Combined Mini-Shopping Vacation in Bangkok, Thailand, & Hong Kong in March 2014 ~ Section 3
Welcome to the third sub-segment of my combined mini-shopping vacation to Bangkok, Thailand, and Hong Kong in March 2014. This third segment of the entire trip report shall be covering three main focus topics.They will mainly be spending the first day travelling on the Airport Express MTR line roundabouts cum a family dinner gathering at Victoria Peak, a holy spiritual visit to Ngong Ping cum evening shopping around the Mong Kok area, and spending the last day on additional Airport Express MTR line roundabouts.
Part 1 ~ Spending The First Day On Airport Express MTR Roundabouts Cum Family Dinner Gathering At Victoria Peak
In the wee hours the next morning, which was Tuesday (18 March), I woke up at precisely 6.45 a.m. shortly after my mobile phone alarm blasted off. Getting up silently, I went to have a shower before changing into my daily attire and preparing my belongings required. Since this was the first day, I decided that I would undertake an Airport Express MTR roundabout day for the afternoon. As such, I had also planned to catch the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport from Central Hong Kong in advance.
With my belongings for the day prepared, I quietly did some personal stuff on my laptop while observing the foggy early morning view. Soon enough, I was finally ready to depart at 7.15 a.m.. Given that I could not commence my first day without breakfast, I left my Room No. 2117 and took the nearest elevator down to the main hotel lobby, eventually reaching there by 7.25 a.m.. Walking across the main hotel lobby, I arrived at the hotel's buffet restaurant, Essence, where breakfast was already being served.
Entering the restaurant itself, I stored my belongings at a nearby empty table before proceeding over to the self-service food counters to select the food that would be appealing to me. At Essence itself, I had some scrambled eggs with bacon, smoked salmon and sausages, with a bowl of congee and crackers. To tell the truth, this breakfast tasted quite bland, unlike the complimentaryà la carte breakfast services at other luxury five-starhotels in the Kowloon district, like the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel Hong Kong.
The entire view of Tung Chung New Town as seen from my Room No. 2117 at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong in the early morning
The view of my Room No. 2117 at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the wee hours of the early morning
The view of Tung Chung Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Station from my Room No. 2117 at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the wee hours of the early morning
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early morning rush hour
The entrance to Essence restaurant located in the main hotel lobby in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early morning rush hour
The various buffet counters at Essence restaurant at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early morning rush hour
My main breakfast course: Scrambled eggs with soft and crispy bacon, chicken and beef sausage with smoked salmon
The interior of Essence restaurant in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early morning rush hour
A bowl of rice congee porridge with some crackers for myself
After having a filling breakfast at Essence, the clock was finally showing 7.50 a.m.. Since I was feeling all ready to go, I took the escalator up towards the hotel entrance of Citygate Outlets and bypassed several unopened shops located along the enclosed footbridge all the way towards the other side of the outlet mall. Many of the shops were still not opened for business as it was still too early that morning. Once I was on the other side of Citygate Outlets, I took the escalator all the way down to the ground level and exited Citygate Outlets by the exit that was located just adjacent towards the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour. Walking past the ice cream parlour, I decided to stop at Starbucks Coffee first since it was still early. There, I managed to have a large and nice, warm mug of hot cocoa before commencing my MTR train journey to Central Hong Kong.
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong as I make my way to Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
The escalators linking the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong with Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
Bypassing several unopened retail shops at Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
The view of the Airport Express MTR line tracks and North Lantau Expressway from the enclosed footbridge at Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
Walking across the second level of Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
Riding the escalators down to the ground level at Citygate Outlets during the early morning rush hour
The main entrance towards Citygate Outlets in the morning
The exterior of Starbucks Coffee cafeteria at Citygate Outlets in the morning
The large gathering and fountain area outside Citygate Outlets in the morning
The interior of Starbucks Coffee cafeteria at Citygate Outlets in the morning
A nice, warm mug of hot cocoa for myself at Starbucks Coffee cafeteria at Citygate Outlets
The exterior view of Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
After having a nice and warm mug of hot cocoa at Starbucks Coffee near the main entrance to Citygate Outlets, the clock was finally showing 8.15 a.m.. Given that I was ready to commence my early morning trip to Central Hong Kong to begin my Airport Express roundabout day, I headed to Tung Chung Station, where I tapped in via the ticketing gates before heading down to the platforms. I then decided to catch a train that would not be as crowded.
Soon enough, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. V801-V601 finally arrived at Tung Chung Station at 8.27 a.m. on Track No. 1. Once all the train doors were opened, I quickly boarded the train via Car No. 6 (X701) for the short and quick early morning rush trip of 29 minutes to Central Hong Kong.After the clock struck 8.32 a.m., all the train doors were automatically closed, and the Tung Chung Line train finally pulled out of Tung Chung Station, thus allowing me to commence my early morning trip to Central Hong Kong.
The Tung Chung Line (Traditional Chinese: 東涌綫; Simplified Chinese: 东涌线) serves as one of the major MTR metro networks operating in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). As the name implies, the line provides connections from Central Hong Kong and downtown Kowloon to Tung Chung New Town on Lantau Island, with an average trip from Central Hong Kong to Tung Chung taking approximately 27 minutes. The line has a top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph).
The line was opened on 21 June 1998, in collaboration with the opening of the Lantau Airport Railway, using an entirely new fleet of 12 Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMUs built by Adtranz and CAF in Spain. Initially made up of seven cars, these sets were lengthened to eight cars with the opening of Nam Cheong Station on 16 December 2003. From 12 June 2006, four new 8-car Rotem K-Stock EMUs were introduced on the Tung Chung Line to increase passenger capacity on the line during busy peak periods.
Crossing the Tsing Ma Bridge and Kap Shui Mun Bridge, the line is joined with the Airport Express between Tsing Yi and Station Siu Ho Wan Depot, until the lines are separated to their destinations via a flyover track near Tung Chung. Some trains also start and terminate at Tsing Yi Station, instead of continuing their service to Tung Chung Station, during busy peak periods. Certain trains also pull over at Sunny Bay Station for approximately two to three minutes so as to allow faster Airport Express trains to pass through at high speed without stopping.
The interior of the main station concourse at Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
Tracks No. 1 and 2 serving the eastbound Tung Chung Line trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
The current MTR system map on Tracks No. 1 and 2 at Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
The car number labelling in Car No. 6 (X701) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. V801-V601 during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Tung Chung Station
The interior of Car No. 6 (X701) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. V801-V601 during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Tung Chung Station
東涌綫 (X701) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
東涌綫 (X701) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (2/3)
東涌綫 (X701) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (3/3)
After a short 29-minute journey from Tung Chung New Town, I finally arrived at the Hong Kong terminal station at 9.01 a.m. on Track No. 3. Alighting the train with all my belongings, I went up towards the main station concourse and went towards a nearby convenience store in the Tung Chung Line concourse to purchase a bottle of water. Since I still had plenty of time before the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, I decided to have a rest and fill up for water, and proceed towards the platform half an hour prior to my scheduled departure timing. Without anymore hesitation, I went through the Airport Express ticketing gates in the Tung Chung Line concourse, and took the elevator up towards the Airport Express concourse of the station, eventually arriving there at 9.15 a.m.. As planned, I sat by the benches located adjacent to the ticketing gates and went for a brief washroom break. I then went through the ticket gates at 9.50 a.m. in preparation for the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport. Hong Kong Station (Chinese: 香港站) is an MTR station located in the Central District of Hong Kong Island. The station serves as the eastern terminus for the Airport Express and Tung Chung Line, and is located between Man Cheung Street and Harbour View Street. The station is located just beneath the International Finance Centre (IFC), and is directly connected towards Central Station via an underground passageway, with the walk taking between three to six minutes. Hong Kong Station also serves one of the two MTR stations along the Airport Express to provide in-town check-in service for flights departing from Hong Kong International Airport. There are also free Airport Express shuttle buses linking the station with major hotels in the Wan Chai and Central areas. As of 15 March 2014, there is one island platform with two tracks serving the Tung Chung Line trains, and one side platform serving one track for the Airport Express trains. The Airport Express (Traditional Chinese: 機場快綫; Simplified Chinese: 机场快线) is one of the major Mass Transit Railway (MTR) lines operating within Hong Kong. With a total length and distance of 35.3 kilometres, the line mainly links the urban districts of downtown Hong Kong and Kowloon with Hong Kong International Airport and the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre, which are both located on Lantau Island. A typical journey time from Central Hong Kong to Hong Kong International Airport takes 24 minutes, and 28 minutes towards AsiaWorld-Expo. Although the Airport Express is part of the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) system, it is not a traditional mass rapid transit line. Instead, it provides a dedicated express rail service to and from Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo. Since the start of the revised Airport Express MTR timetable on 15 January 2012, service frequency is approximately 10 minutes in the daylight and early evening hours, and every 12 minutes during the late night hours. The Airport Express currently uses a dedicated fleet of 11 8-car Adtranz-CAF MTR A-Stock train sets as its main rolling stock, with each train operating at a maximum speed of 135 km/h (84 mph). These trains were manufactured jointly by Adtranz and CAF in Spain, and also appear to be relatively similar to the first batch of Adtranz-CAF MTR A-Stock trains currently used on the more conventional Tung Chung Line. However, these trains sport several differences, one of which that they look more like luxurious express trains rather than normal commuter trains. The first seven cars have two doors on each side, while Car No. 8 (K Car) functions as a baggage container car. A typical 8-car configuration for each of the Airport Express train sets would be in the following ascending order: E100-F100-G100-H200-F200-G200-J400-K400. Passengers travelling on the Airport Express have the benefit of using the in-town check-in service for flights on certain airlines, and receive boarding passes for their flights at Hong Kong and Kowloon Stations without extra cost. Free shuttle buses linking to major hotels in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, as well as Hung Hom Station are also available. Due to the relatively high fares and low catchment areas located along the Airport Express, some travellers may opt to take the cheaper and more conventional Tung Chung Line, combined with a bus or taxi route, or seek other modes of transport in Hong Kong. The Airport Express can also be used by passengers using the Octopus Card (Traditional Chinese: 八達通; Simplified Chinese: 八达通).
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Tung Chung Line trains at Hong Kong Station
The Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the morning rush hour
The elevator linking up to the Airport Express concourse in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station in the morning shortly after I had arrived
The 9.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station while having a rest
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E105-K405, operating as the 9.30 a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong
Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong
Kong Station
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E103-K403, operating as the 9.50 a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong
Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong
Kong Station
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E108-K408, operating as the ten o' clock Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong
Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong
Kong Station
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E107-K407, operating as the 10.10 a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong
Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong
Kong Station
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station shortly before the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arrived at the platform
After spending approximately half an hour of anticipated waiting on the platform, an 8-car Airport Express Adtranz-CAF A-Train Set No. K404-E104 finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 10.12 a.m. on Track No. 1. It was then that I knew that this train would depart at 10.20 a.m. for Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded through Car No. 1 (E104) and settled down to commence my first Airport Express round of the day. At exactly 10.20 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey time of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. I was then on my way beginning my first Airport Express MTR line round of the day towards AsiaWorld-Expo. Whenever I travel on the Airport Express MTR line in Hong Kong, I would usually go for a maximum of three rounds for each day I travel on the line. Filming videos along the entire line is also a very favourite hobby of mine, mostly between Tsing Yi Station and Hong Kong International Airport. For the journey towards AsiaWorld-Expo, I usually find seats in Car No. 1, and the seating patterns vary for the return trip towards Central Hong Kong.
機場快綫 A-Train (K404-E104) 駛入港鐵香港站一號月台
The interior of Car No. 1 (E104) on the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
A typical type of train door found on the Airport Express trains
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E104) on board the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express logo in Car No. 1 (E104) on board the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 1 (E104) on the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The MTR system map in Car No. 1 (E104) on board the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The LED indication router in Car No. 1 (E104) on the 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (3/3)
After a short, routine 28-minute journey from the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 10.48 a.m. on Track No. 1. In order to complete my first Airport Express round of the day, I switched over towards Car No. 2 (F104) in preparation for the routine 29-minute return trip back towards Central Hong Kong, knowing that the train would depart AsiaWorld-Expo Station at 10.53 a.m.. At exactly 10.53 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station for its routine journey timing of just 29 minutes back towards the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way back towards the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong to complete my first Airport Express MTR round of the day. AsiaWorld-Expo Station (Traditional Chinese: 博覽館站; Simplified Chinese: 博览馆站) is a ground level MTR station serving the AsiaWorld-Expo convention and exhibition centre on Lantau Island, Hong Kong. The station currently serves as the western terminus for the Airport Express, and is located just adjacent to Hong Kong International Airport. The station was opened for service on 20 December 2005, replacing Airport Station as the western terminus, in preparation for the opening of the new convention and exhibition centre on 21 December 2005.
Track No. 1 serving the eastbound Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station during the early morning rush hour
The name plate of AsiaWorld-Expo Station just before I boarded the 10.53 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong
The emergency communication button in Car No. 2 (F104) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K404-E104, now operating as the 10.53 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The interior of Car No. 2 (F104) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K404-E104, now operating as the 10.53 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 2 (F104) on board the 10.53 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The LED indication router in Car No. 2 (F104) on board the 10.53 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
Awaiting departure from AsiaWorld-Expo Station
機場快綫 (F104) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport
機場快綫 (F104) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (F104) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (3/3)
After a short 29-minute routine journey from the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre on Lantau Island, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 11.22 a.m. on Track No. 1. It was then that I had completed my first Airport Express MTR round of the day. Alighting from the train, I immediately turned over towards Car No. 1 (E104) to commence my second Airport Express MTR round of the day, knowing that the train would depart Hong Kong Station at 11.30 a.m.. Once the clock struck 11.30 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey time of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. It was then that I commenced my second Airport Express MTR round of the day, with a break at Hong Kong International Airport for every second round.
The 11.30 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (E104) on the 11.30 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (2/2)
After a very short journey time of just 24 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 11.54 a.m. on Tracks No. 1 and 3. Once the train doors were opened, I alighted the train through the left side leading to Terminal 1 on Track No. 1, and walked directly into the departures and check-in area of Terminal 1, eventually entering it by noon. Once I was in the departures and check-in area of Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport, I decided to have a brief washroom and water break before finding a good shop to shop at later on. Upon having a brief washroom and water break, I went to look through the shops available within Terminal 1 of Hong Kong International Airport very carefully prior to making my choice on which shop to patronise. Airport Station (Traditional Chinese: 機場站; Simplified Chinese: 机场站) is an elevated MTR station that serves the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport. The station is located on the Airport Express line, and is the westernmost railway station in Hong Kong. The entire station building is directly connected with Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport via several passageways. The station was opened for service on 6 July 1998, in collaboration with the opening of Hong Kong International Airport, and served as the western terminus for the Airport Express until the opening of AsiaWorld-Expo Station on 20 December 2005. On 28 February 2007, an additional westbound platform, Track No. 3, was opened for service in collaboration with the opening of Terminal 2 and Sky Plaza. As of 15 March 2014, there are a total of three side platforms serving three tracks. Tracks No. 1 and 3 on the upper level serve the trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo, whereas Track No. 2 on the lower level serves the trains bound for Central Hong Kong. Simultaneously, doors on both side will open for trains heading towards AsiaWorld-Expo, with the left side leading to Terminal 1, and the right side leading to Terminal 2. Airport Station is also the only MTR station that is fitted without ticket gates.
Track No. 1 serving the Airport Express trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The customer service centre in Track No. 1 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Looking down towards Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Walking along the moving passageway into the departures and check-in area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
The departures and check-in area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1 during the early afternoon hours
Finally stumbling upon Toys & Games hobby shop in Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
After having a brief washroom break and looking around the shops in the departures and check-in area carefully, I finally stumbled upon a notable hobby shop named Toys & Games at noon. This shop mainly specialises in toys for young children, but also has commercial aircraft models on sale for aviation enthusiasts. I was very familiar with this hobby shop as I have been here several times on my trips to Hong Kong. Entering the shop, I looked around the various aircraft models very carefully before making my choices on which model aircraft to add to my diverse collection. While shopping at the Toys & Games hobby, I managed to purchase a total four new Scale 1:500 commercial aircraft models for HK$1,505 (S$250.83), receiving a change of HK$150 (S$25) from the total cost of HK$1,355 (S$225.83), of which, three of them were Boeing 777s and one of them was an Airbus A330. I knew now and then that they would make very good additions to my diverse aircraft model collection. Upon purchasing my aircraft models, I bypassed the various airline check-in counters and took the escalator down to the arrivals and meeting hall, eventually arriving there by 12.15 p.m.. As I was feeling rather hungry already, I headed over towards a nearby fast-food cafeteria, by the name of McDonald's, which replaced Burger King at Hong Kong International Airport, for a brief lunch break. While having lunch there, I had a large packet of french fries and a carton of Chicken McNuggets worth nine pieces, which helped me to get filled up for my upcoming Airport Express rounds. As of the four new Scale 1:500 aircraft models I purchased, they were, as follows: 1) Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-367/ER "The Spirit of Hong Kong" Hogan Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-367/ER "The Spirit of Hong Kong" Hogan Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
2) China Southern Airlines Airbus A330-243 Herpa Scale 1:500 (514583)
China Southern Airlines Airbus A330-243 Herpa Scale 1:500 (514583)
3) Garuda Indonesia Boeing 777-3U3/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (524544)
Garuda Indonesia Boeing 777-3U3/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (524544)
4) United Airlines Boeing 777-224/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (526159)
United Airlines Boeing 777-224/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (526159)
The view of the departures and check-in area shortly before going down towards the arrivals and meeting area
Walking down the escalators towards the arrivals and meeting area at Hong Kong International Airport
The McDonald's fast-food restaurant in the arrivals and meeting area of Hong Kong International Airport
Having some french fries, Chicken McNuggets and Coca-cola at McDonald's fast-food restaurant at Hong Kong International Airport
After having a quick fast-food lunch at McDonald's located within the arrivals and meeting area of Hong Kong International Airport, the clock was finally showing 12.30 p.m.. As I was feeling ready to resume my second Airport Express MTR round of the day, I immediately went for a brief restroom break before heading towards Track No. 2 serving the trains bound for Tsing Yi, Kowloon and Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station. Upon reaching Track No. 2 of Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.35 p.m., I made a prior decision to catch the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong. While I sat down to wait for the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, I spotted the earlier Airport Express trains arriving and departing the station, sorting out my belongings for the journey at the same time.
The view of the arrivals and meeting area of Hong Kong International Airport in the early afternoon hours
About to enter the passageway linking the arrivals and meeting area with Hong Kong International Airport Station
The 12.38 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arriving at Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The 12.38 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong awaiting departure from Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The 12.49 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong awaiting departure from Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station shortly before the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arrived at the platform
After spending approximately nearly 20 minutes of anticipated waiting along the station platform, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. K408-E108, operating on the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express MTR service bound for Central Hong Kong, finally entered Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.54 p.m. on Track No. 2. I then boarded the train through Car No. 2 (F108) and settled down to resume my second Airport Express MTR round of the day. At exactly 12.58 p.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong International Airport Station for its remaining segment of its routine journey towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. It was then that I was finally on my way for a short routine 25-minute journey towards the hustle and bustle of Central Hong Kong, and resuming my second Airport Express MTR round of the day.
機場快綫 A-Train (K408-E108) 駛入港鐵機場站二號月台
The Airport Express advertisement commercial screen indicating the train's brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 2 (F108) on the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 2 (F108) on the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (F108) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (1/2)
The Airport Express advertisement commercial screen indicating the train's brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (F108) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (2/2)
After a routine journey time of just 25 minutes from Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 1.23 p.m. (13 23) on Track No. 1, thereby completing my second Airport Express round of the day. Ensuring that I had my belongings with me, I alighted the train and made my turnaround towards Car No. 1 (E108) in order to begin my third Airport Express MTR round of the day. Knowing that the train would depart at 1.30 p.m. (13 30), I boarded the train through Car No. 1 (E108), and secured a seat by the rear baggage rack. Once the clock struck exactly 1.30 p.m. (13 30), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its short routine 28-minute journey towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, eventually allowing me to commence my third Airport Express round of the day.
The 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E108) on board the 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport
The interior of Car No. 1 (E108) on board the 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E108) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E108) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (E108) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (3/3)
After a short, routine journey time of 28 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 1.58 p.m. (13 58) on Track No. 1. Ensuring that I had all of my belongings with me, I alighted the train and made my usual turnaround towards Car No. 3 (G108) in preparation for the return trip back towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. Knowing that the train would depart at 2.04 p.m. (14 04), I boarded Car No. 3 (G108) and secured a seat near the front baggage rack. At exactly 2.04 p.m. (14 04), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station for its routine journey time of 29 minutes back towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, thus allowing me to resume the second half of my third Airport Express MTR round of the day.
The name plate of AsiaWorld-Expo Station just before I boarded the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong
The sole Airport Express platform of AsiaWorld-Expo Station with the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at the platform
The emergency communication button of Car No. 3 (G108) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The interior of Car No. 3 (G108) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The LED indication router in Car No. 3 (G108) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 3 (G108) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
Awaiting departure from AsiaWorld-Expo Station
機場快綫 (G108) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (G108) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (G108) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (3/3)
After a routine journey time of just 29 minutes from AsiaWorld-Expo, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 2.33 p.m. (14 33) on Track No. 1. Feeling rather satisfied with my three complete Airport Express rounds of the day, I decided to treat myself to a bonus round. Ensuring that I had all of my belongings with me, I alighted the train and went through the ticketing gates for a quick washroom break prior to commencing my Airport Express bonus round. In advance, I had planned to board Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, which would be scheduled to depart Hong Kong Station at three o' clock (15 00). Once I had a quick visit to the washrooms, I re-entered the ticketing gates again by 2.40 p.m.. I then had a seat on one of the benches by the platform while waiting for the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport.
The 2.40 p.m. (14 40) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station shortly after I arrived back at the station
Bypassing a barber shop located in the Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station
About to re-enter the ticket gates to access the platform again
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E107-K407, operating as the 2.50
p.m. (1450) Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong
Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong
Kong Station
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station shortly before the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arrived at the station
After spending approximately 20 minutes of anticipated waiting on the platform, an 8-car Airport Express Adtranz-CAF A-Train Set No. K406-E106 finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 2.53 p.m. (14 53) on Track No. 1. It was then that I knew that this train would depart at three o' clock (15 00) for Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded through Car No. 1 (E106) and settled down for the bonus trip towards AsiaWorld-Expo. At exactly three o' clock (15 00), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey working time of just 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. I was then on my way for my Airport Express bonus round at the same time.
機場快綫 A-Train (K406-E106) 駛入港鐵香港站一號月台
The interior of Car No. 1 (E106) on the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E106) on the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The MTR system map in Car No. 1 (E106) on the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The LED indication router in Car No. 1 (E106) on the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E106) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (1/3)
機場快綫 (E106) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (2/3)
機場快綫 (E106) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (3/3)
After a routine 28-minute train trip from the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 3.28 p.m. (15 28) on Track No. 1. As I was already beginning to feel too exhausted to continue back towards Central Hong Kong, I decided to terminate my bonus Airport Express round at Tsing Yi Station instead, and connect towards the Tung Chung Line for the journey back towards Tung Chung. I then did my usual car turn-around towards Car No. 5 (F206) and settled down for the short 16-minute run towards Tsing Yi. At exactly 3.33 p.m. (15 33), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station for its routine 29-minute journey towards the heart of Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way for a short journey time of just 16 minutes towards Tsing Yi.
Making my turn-around towards Car No. 5 (F206) for the journey towards Tsing Yi at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The interior of Car No. 5 (F206) on board the 3.33 p.m. (15 33) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
Awaiting departure from AsiaWorld-Expo Station
機場快綫 (F206) 行走片段 博覽館至青衣 (AWE TO TSY) (1/2)
機場快綫 (F206) 行走片段 博覽館至青衣 (AWE TO TSY) (2/2)
After a short and quick late afternoon return trip of just 16 minutes from the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre, I finally arrived at Tsing Yi Station at 3.49 p.m. (15 49) on Track No. 2. Checking to see that there was nothing left behind on board, I quickly alighted from the train, thus completing my Airport Express MTR bonus round for the day. Tapping through the main ticketing gates with my Octopus Card, I took the nearest elevator down to the Tung Chung Line concourse of the station building.
teaching the Tung Chung Line concourse at 3.55 p.m., I quickly went over to the Tung Chung Line ticket gates and tapped into the paid concourse with my Octopus Card. Heading to the elevator linking up to the individual Tung Chung Line platforms, I took the elevator up to Track No. 3 serving the Tung Chung Line trains bound for Tung Chung via Sunny Bay. Arrivingat Track No. 3 by 4.05 p.m., I decided to wait for a train bound for Tung Chung that would be slightly not as crowded for the trip back to Tung Chung.
Tsing Yi Station (Chinese: 青衣站) is an elevator MTR interchange metro station on Tsing Yi Island in the Kwai Tsing District of New Territories, Hong Kong. It serves as an interchange station for the Airport Express and Tung Chung Lines, and as a major interchange hub for buses and cabs located on the side of the station. The station also serves as a major hub for New Territories, Tsuen Wan, Tsing Yi and Tuen Mun. Unlike at Hong Kong Station and Kowloon Station, the station does not provide in-town check-in facilities for passengers travelling to Hong Kong International Airport via the Airport Express.
Certain Tung Chung Line trains from Central Hong Kong also terminate here during the busy peak hours in the early morning and late afternoon. As of 15 March 2014, there are four side platforms serving four tracks, with both the Airport Express and Tung Chung Line having their individual platforms. Track No. 2 is used only for passengers coming from AsiaWorld-Expo or Hong Kong International Airport via the Airport Express to alight, except when Morning Express services are available during the early morning rush hour on weekdays.
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong via Kowloon at Tsing Yi Station during the late afternoon rush hour
機場快綫 A-Train (K406-E106) 駛離港鐵青衣站二號月台
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong via Kowloon at Tsing Yi Station during the late afternoon rush hour shortly before I headed down to the Tung Chung Line concourse
The Hong Kong-bound Airport Express concourse of Tsing Yi Station during the late afternoon rush hour
The Tung Chung Line concourse of Tsing Yi Station during the mid-afternoon hours
About to go through the ticketing gates towards the Tung Chung Line trains in the Tung Chung Line concourse at Tsing Yi Station
Finally arriving at Track No. 3 at Tsing Yi Station during the late afternoon rush hour
Track No. 3 serving the westbound Tung Chung Line trains bound for Tung Chung at Tsing Yi Station during the late afternoon rush hour
After spending approximately five minutes of anticipated waiting on the station platform, an 8-car MTR Rotem K-Stock EMU Set No. V616-V816 finally arrived at Tsing Yi Station at 4.10 p.m. (16 10) on Track No. 3. Once all the train doors were opened, I promptly boarded the train via Car No. 4 (Y716) and settled in for the short and quick late afternoon return trip of just 12 minutes back to the suburbs of Tung Chung Town Centre on Lantau Island.
Once the clock struck around 4.11 p.m. (16 11) sharp, all the train doors were closed, and the Tung Chung Line train finally pulled out of Tsing Yi Station for the remaining half of its short and routine late afternoon commuter rush trip of 27 minutes from Central Hong Kong to Tung Chung New Town. I was then on my way for a short and quick late afternoon commuter rush trip of 12 minutes back to the suburbs of Tung Chung New Town on Lantau Island.
東涌綫 K-Train (V616-V816) 駛入港鐵青衣站三號月台
東涌綫 (Y716) 行走片段 青衣至東涌 (TSY TO TUC) (1/2)
東涌綫 (Y716) 行走片段 青衣至東涌 (TSY TO TUC) (2/2)
After a short 12-minute train ride along the Tung Chung Line from Tsing Yi, I finally arrived at the Tung Chung terminal station at 4.23 p.m. (16 23) on Track No. 2. Alighting the train, I walked up the escalators towards the main station concourse and tapped on the exit gates before heading towards the indoor passageway linking the station concourse directly with Citygate Outlets, eventually entering the mall at 4.30 p.m., taking the escalators up towards the second floor of the mall. I then walked along the enclosed outlet mall footbridge towards the other side of the mall. Soon enough, I finally arrived at the mall entrance towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong at 4.35 p.m.. Heading towards the main elevator lobby, I took the elevator up towards the 21st level and headed back towards my Room No. 2117. Arriving back at my room, I noticed that my family had yet to return from their downtown shopping, so throughout the rest of the afternoon, I had a well-earned rest in my hotel Room No. 2117, also calling with the hotel reception counter to arrange for a Lantau Taxi to transport me towards Hong Kong International Airport at 5.30 p.m..
The station platforms of Tung Chung Station during the late afternoon hours
Walking towards the direct indoor passageway between Tung Chung Station and Citygate Outlets
Riding the escalators towards the second level of Citygate Outlets
A lineup of shops located along the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets during the late afternoon hours
Riding the escalators down towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late afternoon hours
The main elevator lobby in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late afternoon hours
The view of my Room No. 2117 during the late afternoon hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from my Room No. 2117 during the late afternoon hours
After spending the remainder of the afternoon resting in the hotel room, I finally received a phone call from my dad at five o' clock. He informed me that we would be having dinner at Café Deco Bar & Grill at Victoria Peak later that night, with an advanced table reservation made for us at eight o' clock. I then informed him that I would be coming towards Central Hong Kong via the Airport Express and then meet him at the restaurant once they had arrived at The Peak Galleria. With that, I grabbed my necessary belongings and left my hotel room at 5.25 p.m. to take the elevator all the way down towards the main hotel lobby, eventually arriving there by 5.30 p.m.. Once I exited the hotel, I found my pre-arranged blue Lantau Taxi towards Hong Kong International Airport waiting for me outside the main entrance towards the hotel. Boarding the cab, I finally departed the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong within a few seconds, with the entire ride towards Hong Kong International Airport taking no more than just 10 minutes.
My pre-arranged blue Lantau Taxi ready to transport me towards Hong Kong International Airport
Finally departing the compound of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
Travelling along the road closer towards the Airport Express MTR bridge near Hong Kong International Airport
Travelling along the road bridge in the direction towards Hong Kong International Airport
Bypassing Cathay City near Hong Kong International Airport
Finally approaching the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport
After a short 10-minute cab ride from the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the departure and drop-off area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1 at 5.40 p.m.. Paying my cab fare and ensuring that I had all of my belongings with me, I thanked the cab driver for his warm and kind services and rushed into the departures and check-in area of the main airport terminal building. Since that I had advanced plans to catch the 5.59 p.m. (17 59) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, I knew that I had to take the escalator down towards the arrivals and meeting area in order to access Track No. 2 of Hong Kong International Airport Station. With that, I took the escalators down to the arrivals and meeting area and entered the station at 5.45 p.m.. Thereafter, I waited on the platform for the 5.59 p.m. (17 59) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong to arrive at the station.
The departure and drop-off area outside Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
Walking into the departures and check-in area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
Heading towards Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station with lots of travellers waiting for the nearest Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong
An 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K407-E107, operating as the 5.47 p.m. (17 47) Airport Express service bound for Central Hong Kong, awaiting departure from Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport
Track No. 2 serving the eastbound Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport shortly before the 5.59 p.m. (17 59) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arrived at the station
After spending approximately 10 minutes of waiting on the eastbound Airport Express platform, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K406-E106, operating as the 5.59 p.m. (17 59) Airport Express service bound for Central Hong Kong, finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport at 5.55 p.m. (17 55) on Track No. 2. Once the train doors were opened, I quickly boarded the train via Car No. 2 (F106), and secured Seat No. 6A for the early evening trip duration of 24 minutes to the lively hustle and bustle of Central Hong Kong.
The train was becoming crowded as it was the start of the early evening rush hour. Once the clock struck exactly 5.59 p.m. (17 59) sharp, all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train ultimately pulled out of Hong Kong International Airport for the remainder of its routine early evening trip of just 29 minutes from AsiaWorld-Expo to Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way for a short and quick routine early evening trip of 24 minutes to the busy and lively hustle and bustle of Central Hong Kong.
機場快綫 A-Train (K406-E106) 駛入港鐵機場站二號月台
The emergency communication button in Car No. 2 (F106) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K406-E106, operating as the 5.59 p.m. (17 59) Airport Express service bound for Central Hong Kong, during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong International Airport
機場快綫 (F106) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (F106) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (2/2)
After a short and quick routine early evening trip of just 24 minutes from Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived at the Hong Kong terminal station at 6.23 p.m. (18 23) on Track No. 1. Checking to see that there was nothing left behind in Car No. 2 (F106), I promptly alighted from the train and tapped out via the Airport Express ticketing gates before changing to the elevators linkingto the in-town check-in concourse of the station building.
Hailing the nearest red urban cab, I immediately informed the driver in Mandarin Chinese that my intended destination was The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak. Soon enough, I finally departed the lively compound of Hong Kong Station at 6.30 p.m.. The entire urban cab trip between Hong Kong Station and Victoria Peak took no more than 20 minutes. At the same time, I sent a message to my family that I was already on the way towards Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak (Chinese: 太平山), also most commonly known as The Peak, is the name of a mountain located in the western half of Hong Kong Island. The mountain has an altitude of 552 metres (1,811 feet), making it the highest mountain point throughout Hong Kong Island, although Tai Mo Shan is currently and officially the highest mountainous point in the entire Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Approximately seven million tourists visit Victoria Peak annually, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong. It offers spectacular views over the heart of Central Hong Kong and Victoria Harbour, as well as overlooking Kowloon. Victoria Peak is accessible by The Peak Tram (Traditional Chinese: 山頂纜車; Simplified Chinese: 山顶缆车), which links Garden Road Station at the base at Central Hong Kong with Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak also has two shopping centres, The Peak Galleria and Peak Tower, to cater to the shopping needs of those visiting Victoria Peak. Night is usually the best time to visit Victoria Peak, since the night scenery from The Peak is very popular with visitors in Hong Kong.
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station during the early evening rush hour
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station in the early evening hours
The Airport Express in-town check-in concourse of Hong Kong Station during the early evening hours
The taxi and limousine stands located outside the main entrance towards Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express entrance towards Hong Kong Station
Finally departing the vicinity of Hong Kong Station
Bypassing the entrance towards the underground car parking area towards Hong Kong Station
Travelling past several office infrastructure in downtown Central Hong Kong
About to turn towards the road leading towards the Bank of China Tower Hong Kong
The view of the Bank of China Tower Hong Kong as I travel through downtown Central Hong Kong
Crossing a flyover bridge towards the mountainous road leading towards Victoria Peak
Finally climbing up the mountainous road leading towards Victoria Peak
The view of Central Hong Kong as I climb up the mountainous road towards Victoria Peak
Approaching The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
Finally arriving at the underground cab stand located just beneath The Peak Galleria
After a short 20-minute urban cab ride from Hong Kong Station, I finally arrived at the taxi stand located just below The Peak Galleria at 6.50 p.m.. Ensuring that none of my personal belongings were left behind, I paid my fare and decided to head over towards the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour first while waiting for my family to arrive. According to my family, we had a made a table reservation for dinner at Café Deco Bar & Grill at eight o' clock later that night. Informing them that I had already arrived at Victoria Peak, they informed me that they were still shopping around Kwong Wah Street and that they would be arriving at Victoria Peak via cab later on. With that, I took the escalator up towards the first level of the mall, and took another escalator down on the other side to access the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour, eventually arriving there at seven o' clock. Entering the parlour, I looked at the various ice cream flavours on display. I then requested for two scoops of Chocolate Chocolate Chip flavour ice cream for myself. Strangely enough, there was a notice at the payment counter at the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria stating that HK$1000 bills would not be accepted until further notice because of rising concerns of counterfeiting currency incidents in Hong Kong. Should you receive a counterfeit banknote and you realise that the particular banknote is indeed counterfeit, you should inform the police immediately or proceed to a nearby bank to file a police report. Upon paying for my ice cream scoops, I sat at one of the tables outside to enjoy my ice cream while waiting for my family to arrive at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak from Kwong Wah Street.
The underground cab stand located just below The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak shortly after I had arrived
The view of the ground floor of The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak shortly after I had arrived
The exterior view of the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak at night
The interior of the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak at night
Two scoops of Chocolate Chocolate Chip ice cream for myself at the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The night view of The Peak Tower as seen from the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
After having some ice cream at the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour, I finally received a call from my dad telling me that he was already at Café Deco Bar & Grill at 7.30 p.m.. He then directed me to meet him at the upper level of the restaurant, where our reserved table was located. Upon receiving his call, I took my belongings and left the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at 7.35 p.m., and took the escalator up towards the first level of the mall. Soon enough, I finally arrived at the first level entrance towards Café Deco Bar & Grill at 7.40 p.m.. Entering the restaurant, I walked up the staircase towards the upper level of the restaurant, where I finally met my dad and younger brother at our reserved table. My mum was still shopping around The Peak Galleria when I had arrived at the restaurant. Once my mum joined us at the restaurant, we had a very good look through the food and beverage menus provided for us. Once we had a careful review through the food and beverage menus, a restaurant waitress finally came by at our table to take down our main meal orders for dinner. We ordered a lot of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms, and several grilled meat dishes, along with a large pizza. Soon enough, later that evening, we had a very sumptuous dinner at Café Deco Bar & Grill, with really top-notch service as usual, and a glass of Les Jamelles Cinsault Rose 2011 pink wine for myself.
The entrance to Café Deco on the first level of The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The interior of the lower level of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The oysters and molluscs bar located on the upper level of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The interior of the upper level of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The spectacular night view of Hong Kong Island as seen from the upper level of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The view of the Bank of China Tower and several urban infrastructure located in Hong Kong Island at night as seen from Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The cover page for the main course dinner menu at Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
Reviewing the main course dinner menu at Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The cover page for the wine and beverage menu at Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
Reviewing the wine and beverage menu at Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
A platter of assorted clams to be shared among us
Reviewing the special dinner set menu of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
A platter of assorted oysters to be shared among us
The bottle of Les Jamelles Cinsault Rose 2011 pink wine displayed by one of the restaurant waiters
A nice glass of Les Jamelles Cinsault Rose 2011 pink wine for myself
A large pizza with tomato, sliced ham and cheese to be shared among us
A plate of Rib-eye steak to be shared among us
A mouthwatering platter of fish and chips for my younger brother
The platter of Rib-eye steak about to be enjoyed by my dad
A small side platter of sautéed mushrooms to be shared among us
My main course: Grilled US prime beef and Rougie Foie Gras de Canard served with morel cream sauce and white asparagus from the Loire Valley
A small side platter of french fries to be shared among us
A small side platter of mashed potatoes to be shared among us
The interior of the upper level of Café Deco at The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak shortly before we left the restaurant
After having a really sumptuous and filling dinner feast at Café Deco Bar & Grill, the clock was finally showing 9.05 p.m.. Since we were already filling stuffed to the brim and that there was nothing much left to do at The Peak Galleria, we decided to head back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. Just like the journey towards Victoria Peak, we had different methods to head back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. To get back towards the Hotel Novotel Hong Kong, my family would catch a direct cab from Victoria Peak back towards the hotel. However, as for me, I would catch a red urban cab to Hong Kong Station before catching the Airport Express from Central Hong Kong towards Hong Kong International Airport. Upon arriving at Hong Kong International Airport, I would catch a blue Lantau Taxi back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. With that, we paid our restaurant dinner bill and left the restaurant by 9.10 p.m. and took the escalators all the way down towards the basement cab stand to hail our respective cabs back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. The cab stand located just below The Peak Galleria was very crowded with waiting passengers eager to head back home. I was just ahead of my family in the queue to hail a nearby cab.
The entrance to Café Deco on the second level of The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
The view of the ground floor of The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak as we make our way towards the undeground taxi stand
The crowded underground cab stand located just below The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak filled with waiting passengers for a cab
After spending approximately 15 minutes of anticipated waiting in the long queue at the cab stand at The Peak Galleria, my turn to hail a red urban cab finally came at 9.25 p.m.. Once I had flagged the nearest cab down, I boarded it and instructed the driver to transport me to the Airport Express entrance of Hong Kong Station. My family was still behind me waiting for their turn to hail their direct cab back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. Soon enough, I finally departed the compound of The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak at 9.30 p.m., with the entire hilly road journey timing between Victoria Peak and Hong Kong Station taking no more than just 15 minutes. The view of downtown Central Hong Kong as I climbed down Victoria Peak was very beautiful, especially when it is late at night. At the same time, I kept my family informed that I would be alright travelling on my own at night.
Finally travelling along the dark road near The Peak Galleria at Victoria Peak
Travelling behind several red urban cabs heading towards Central Hong Kong
The view of Central Hong Kong as I climb down the mountainous road towards the heart of Central Hong Kong
Climbing down the mountainous road from Victoria Peak towards Central Hong Kong
Finally approaching the base road leading towards Central Hong Kong
Travelling down the road towards Central Hong Kong after climbing down from Victoria Peak
Travelling along the roads of Central Hong Kong in the direction towards Hong Kong Station
Travelling past several luxury hotels located in the heart of Central Hong Kong on the way towards Hong Kong Station
Finally arriving at the Airport Express entrance towards Hong Kong Station
After a very short cab journey time of just 15 minutes from Victoria Peak, I finally arrived at the Airport Express entrance to Hong Kong Station at 9.45 p.m.. Paying my cab fare, I made sure that none of my belongings had been left on board, and thanked the cab driver for his services. Entering the station, I originally planned to catch the ten o' clock (22 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport. I then took the elevator down to the Airport Express concourse, eventually arriving at the concourse at 9.50 p.m.. Entering the Airport Express platform through the main ticketing gates, I suddenly had a change of plans once I had arrived at the Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station. Knowing that the ten o' clock (22 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport would be much too early to catch, I decided to re-schedule myself on the next train, which would depart Hong Kong Station at 10.10 p.m. (22 10).
The Airport Express in-town check-in concourse of Hong Kong Station during the late night hours
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station during the late night hours
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station during the late night hours
The ten o' clock (22 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arriving at Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The ten o' clock (22 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (E106) on the ten o' clock (22 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
After spending approximately just 10 minutes of anticipated waiting on the platform, an 8-car Airport Express Adtranz-CAF A-Train Set No. K411-E111 finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 10.02 p.m. (22 02) on Track No. 1. It was then that I knew that this train would depart at 10.10 p.m. (22 10) for Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded through Car No. 1 (E111) and settled down for the late evening run towards Hong Kong International Airport. At exactly 10.10 p.m. (22 10), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine night journey of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. I was then on my way for a short night journey time of 24 minutes towards Hong Kong International Airport.
The 10.10 p.m. (22 10) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (E111) on the 10.10 p.m. (22 10) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button in Car No. 1 (E111) of the 10.10 p.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The MTR system map in Car No. 1 (E111) of the 10.10 p.m. (22 10) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E111) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E111) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (2/2)
After a very short and quick 24-minute Airport Express MTR ride from the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 10.34 p.m. (22 34) on Tracks No. 1 and 3. Ensuring that none of my belongings had been left behind on board, I alighted the train through Track No. 1 and took the elevator all the way down towards the ground level, where the cab stands for various destinations were located. Heading towards the Lantau Taxi section of the cab stands, I rolled up behind a few other passengers for my turn to board a Lantau Cab. Soon enough, my turn to hail a Lantau Taxi finally came at 10.50 p.m.. I then boarded the cab and instructed the cab driver in Mandarin Chinese to transport me back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Outlets located in nearby Tung Chung New Town. Soon enough, within a few seconds, I finally departed the busy compound of Hong Kong International Airport. It was already very late at the time, knowing that my family had just arrived back at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. The entire Lantau Taxi journey from Hong Kong International Airport back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong took no more than approximately just 10 minutes.
Track No. 1 serving the Airport Express trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo at Hong Kong International Airport Station shortly after I had arrived during the late night hours
The 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Airport Express Set No. E111-K411 about to depart Hong Kong International Airport Station from Tracks No. 1 and 3
The passageway leading towards Terminal 2 at Hong Kong International Airport
The taxi stands located between the two terminals at Hong Kong International Airport shortly after I had arrived
A light blue Lantau Taxi finally pulling up towards me
Finally departing the taxi stand located between Terminals 1 and 2 at Hong Kong International Airport
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks between AsiaWorld-Expo and Hong Kong International Airport at night
Finally departing the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport
About to turn towards Tung Chung New Town along the Lantau Expressway
The night view of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong while crossing the bridge towards it
About to make a U-turn at a traffic junction towards Tung Chung New Town
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
After a very short 10-minute night cab journey from the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived at the main entrance towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong at eleven o' clock. Paying up my cab fare, I ensured that none of my belongings had been left behind before thanking the Lantau Taxi driver for his services. I then went into the main hotel lobby and took the elevator up towards the 21st level. Arriving at the 21st level of the hotel by 11.05 p.m., I went past the closed Premier Lounge and arrived back at my Room No. 2117. Putting my belongings aside, I went to have a nice, hot shower and changed into my pyjamas prior to settling in for the remainder of the night. Feeling very tired, I did some personal stuff on my laptop, and put up my electronic device batteries to be charged, before finally turning in at around one o' clock later that night. Part 2 ~ Paying A Visit To The Giant Tian Tan Buddha At Ngong Ping Village & Evening Shopping In Downtown Mongkok The next morning, which was Wednesday (19 March), I woke up at around 10.30 a.m. after having a well-earned good night's sleep. Since it was still too early to do anything else, I did some personal stuff on my laptop and laid out my attire for the day. I then had a nice, hot shower at around 11.15 a.m. and changed into my day's attire in preparation to commence the day, with my younger waking up 15 minutes earlier. According to my parents, we would be visiting the Giant Tian Tan Buddha at Ngong Ping Village and doing some evening shopping in downtown Mong Kok on this day. Once we were all ready to commence the day, my younger brother and I met up with our parents outside our rooms and decided to go for lunch first before heading towards Ngong Ping Village. Soon enough, we left our rooms at noon and took the elevator down towards the main hotel lobby. Arriving at the hotel lobby by 12.10 p.m., we took the escalator linking the hotel with Citygate Outlets, eventually stepping foot into the outlet mall by 12.15 p.m.. We then walked along the enclosed shopping footbridge and looked through the different restaurants and cafeterias very carefully along the other side of the outlet mall.
The view of my Room No. 2117 shortly after I woke up during the late morning hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from my Room No. 2117 during the late morning hours
The view of Hong Kong International Airport from my Room No. 2117 during the late morning hours
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late morning hours
The escalators linking the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong with Citygate Outlets during the early afternoon hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets during the early afternoon hours
A lineup of shops located along the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets during the early afternoon hours
Walking along the second level of Citygate Outlets in the afternoon
Finally stumbling upon Federal Palace in the afternoon for lunch
After looking through the various restaurants around Citygate Outlets very carefully, both my younger brother and I finally stumbled upon Federal Palace again, where we had eaten a couple of days earlier for dinner. As our parents were still looking around Citygate Outlets, they promised to meet up with us at the restaurant. Both my brother and I requested for a large table for the four of us, only to be directed to one by a waitress soon enough. Once my younger brother and I were directed to a large table by the beverage bar, we sat down with the food and beverage menus provided, with our parents eventually meeting us at our table at 12.25 p.m., as planned. We then settled down to have a good review through the food and beverage menus first prior to placing our main meal orders for lunch. As with all other traditional local Chinese restaurants, dim sum menus were provided for lunch. Upon having a good look through the food and beverage menus, a waitress came by to our table to take down our main meal orders for lunch. We ordered several familiar dishes and some dim sum items, including roasted pigeon and pork spare ribs. That afternoon, we had a really sumptuous and filling lunch at Federal Palace to get ourselves filled up for the trip towards Ngong Ping Village later on.
The interior view of Federal Palace during lunchtime hours
Reviewing the dim sum menu at Federal Palace at Citygate Outlets
The cover page for the food and beverage lunch menu at Federal Palace at Citygate Outlets
Reviewing the food and beverage lunch menu for Federal Palace at Citygate Outlets
Several vegetable dishes placed on our dining table at Federal Palace at Citygate Outlets
A plate of crispy vegetable with wriggling skin
A nice, hot pot of chicken congee to be shared among us
An assortment of dim sum dishes on our dining table
A small platter of wrapped prawns in sauce on our dining table
A large platter containing two roasted pigeons to be shared among us
A platter of roasted pork and suckling pig slices to be shared among us
A large fish tank displaying a variety of delicious fish located by the main entrance to Federal Palace at Citygate Outlets
A large grouper fish in a bucket to be transported to the kitchen for cooking after being taken out of the restaurant fish tank
The interior view of Federal Palace shortly before we left for Ngong Ping Village
After having a hearty and sumptuous lunch at Federal Palace, the clock was finally showing 1.25 p.m.. Feeling rather stuffed to the brim already, we paid up our lunch bill and left the restaurant by 1.30 p.m. to walk towards Fu Tung Shopping Centre, which was located just across Citygate Outlets via a pedestrian footbridge, to purchase a new mobile phone cover for myself since my existing one was already showing its wear and tear, as well as some bottled water. Upon purchasing all of our necessities needed, the clock was finally showing two o' clock. On the pedestrian footbridge itself, we took an escalator down towards the main cab stand to hail a Lantau Taxi towards Ngong Ping Village. We then informed the driver to take us towards the Giant Tian Tan Buddha located at Ngong Ping Village. Soon enough, we finally departed Tung Chung New Town at 2.05 p.m. for a cab journey through the mountainous roads of half an hour towards Ngong Ping Village. Ngong Ping (Chinese: 昂坪) is a highland village located towards the western part of Lantau Island, Hong Kong. It is home to the Po Lin Monastery and the Giant Tian Tan Buddha, with many of its hills also serving as popular tourists attractions. Ngong Ping Village is served by the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, which links the highland village with Tung Chung New Town. However, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car was closed since Monday (17 March) for annual maintenance checks, and was not expected to resume service until Friday (21 March).
Walking along the second level of Citygate Outlets on our way towards Fu Tung Shopping Centre
Walking along the pedestrian footbridge linking between Citygate Outlets and Fu Tung Shopping Centre
The view of a bus interchange as seen from the footbridge linking between Citygate Outlets and Fu Tung Shopping Centre
Walking down the escalator towards the cab stand at Citygate Outlets
The light blue Lantau Taxi that would soon take us towards Ngong Ping from Citygate Outlets
Finally departing the vicinity of Citygate Outlets and Tung Chung Station
Approaching a road junction in the direction towards Ngong Ping in Tung Chung New Town
Approaching the mountain road leading towards Ngong Ping
Travelling along the mountain road leading towards Tai O and Ngong Ping, with the view of the sea in the background
Travelling down the mountain road towards Ngong Ping with a misty sea in the background
A brown cow crossing the road leading towards Ngong Ping Village
The view of the coast of the South China Sea while travelling along the road towards Ngong Ping Village
Crossing a large dam in the direction towards Ngong Ping Village
The view of a prison complex located near Ngong Ping Village on our way there through a large dam
Travelling along a stretch mountain forest road leading towards Ngong Ping Village
Travelling along a road by a hillside near Ngong Ping Village
Travelling along another stretch mountain forest road leading towards Ngong Ping Village
Finally arriving at Ngong Ping Village
After a short cab ride of just half an hour from Tung Chung New Town, we finally arrived at Ngong Ping Village near Po Lin Monastery at 2.35 p.m.. Ensuring that nothing had been left behind, we paid our cab fare and walked towards the Po Lin Monastery, viewing the statue of the Giant Tian Tan Buddha at the same time. Outside the Giant Tian Tan Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery, there were visitors paying their respects to the spirits by burning incense and offerings, an old Chinese tradition still being practised today. Though I am officially a religion-free person, I just followed my family around and assisted them in paying their respects to the spirits in favour for a wealthy and prosperous life, and for excellent academic performance. During our time spent in Ngong Ping, all of us went into the Po Lin Monastery to pay our respects to the spirits as well, while I was assigned by my parents to sit down on a bench to take care of our belongings.
The broad passageway linking towards the Giant Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery at Ngong Ping
The majestic view of the Giant Tian Tan Buddha watching over the Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Village
Bypassing a small open-air light food stall on our way towards Po Lin Monastery
The view of a large mountain covered in clouds as seen from the village square outside Po Lin Monastery at Ngong Ping Village
The large open-air observation deck where visitors can view the Giant Tian Tan Buddha in Ngong Ping Village
A small souvenir shop selling goodies for visitors and offerings for the spirits located just outside Po Lin Monastery
The view of the surrounding trees located outside the Po Lin Monastery in Ngong Ping Village
The incense burning grounds located outside Po Lin Monastery, where people can burn their incense offerings to the spirits and their ancestors
The exterior view of the Po Lin Monastery at Ngong Ping Village
One last view of the incense burning grounds located just outside the Po Lin Monastery in Ngong Ping Village
One last view of the large open-air observation deck where visitors can view the Giant Tian Tan Buddha
One last view of the Giant Tian Tan Buddha outside the Po Lin Monastery shortly before we headed back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
After spending the entire afternoon of just 1 hour 15 minutes paying our respects at the Po Lin Monastery in Ngong Ping, the clock was finally showing 3.50 p.m.. Since I had plans to travel downtown for some shopping, we decided to head back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong first for some light beverages. Without wasting anymore time, we left the Po Lin Monastery and made our way towards the bus and cab interchange, eventually arriving there by 3.55 p.m.. Once we were at the Ngong Ping cab stand, my dad eventually called for a Lantau Taxi to pick us up from Ngong Ping, with one light blue Lantau Taxi arriving at the Ngong Ping cab and bus interchange at 4.05 p.m.. We immediately boarded the cab and departed the mountainous village of Ngong Ping for a short cab ride of approximately 35 minutes back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong located in the suburb of Tung Chung New Town.
The broad passageway linking towards the Giant Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery at Ngong Ping as we walk back towards Ngong Ping cab and bus interchange
A brown cow grazing on one of the raised grass plantation by the passageway towards Po Lin Monastery
Walking towards the Ngong Ping bus and cab interchange located by the entrance to the shopping street leading towards the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car station
The view of the Ngong Ping bus and cab interchange in the afternoon
Waiting for a Lantau Taxi at the Ngong Ping cab and bus interchange in the afternoon
The light blue Lantau Taxi that would soon take us back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
Finally departing the sparse, rural vicinity of Ngong Ping Village
Climbing down the mountain road away from Ngong Ping Village in the direction leading towards Tai O and Tung Chung New Town
Travelling along a stretch mountain forest road leading away from Ngong Ping
Travelling along a smooth roadway from Ngong Ping Village in the direction towards Tai O and Tung Chung New Town, with the small view of the South China Sea ahead of us
The view of a small mountainous beach by the South China Sea as we travel down the mountain road away from Ngong Ping Village
The view of a lush green mountainous forest as we travel away from Ngong Ping Village back towards Tung Chung New Town
Travelling along a curvy mountainous road located not far from Ngong Ping Village
Crossing a large dam in the direction towards Tung Chung New Town
Travelling along another stretch mountain forest road leading away from Ngong Ping
Passing through a small seaside village in the mountains between Ngong Ping Village and Tung Chung New Town in a fog
The view of the coast of the South China Sea while travelling along the road towards Tung Chung New Town in the fog
A foggy view of the South China Sea as we climb up the mountain in the direction towards Tung Chung New Town
The view of a lush green mountain forest on the way back towards Tung Chung New Town
Climbing down the mountain road in the direction towards Tung Chung New Town
The view of Hong Kong International Airport as we climb down the mountain towards Tung Chung New Town
Finally approaching the base of the mountainous road leading towards Tung Chung New Town
Finally approaching Tung Chung New Town
Travelling along the road leading towards Tung Chung New Town
Travelling along a road located near the Tung Chung New Development Ferry Centre in Tung Chung New Town
Driving along the road located just near the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late afternoon hours
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
After a short cab ride of just 35 minutes from the mountainous traditional Buddhist village of Ngong Ping, we finally arrived back at the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong at 4.40 p.m.. Ensuring that none of our belongings had been left behind, we paid our fare and thanked the driver for his services prior to heading into the hotel lobby. In the hotel lobby, we took the elevator all the way up towards the 21st floor, and headed towards the Premier Lounge for some light beverages. At the same time, we went to get our laptops from our Rooms No. 2117 and 2121 for our own entertainment use in the Premier Lounge. In the Premier Lounge, I had a glass of red wine and some light desserts. I also checked on my laptop for the location of Sai Yeung Choi Street and Pioneer Centre, only to find that the closest station by MTR would be Prince Edward. For my dad and I, our itinerary for the journey towards Prince Edward by the MTR would be to catch the Tung Chung Line between Tung Chung and Lai King Stations. Upon arrival at Lai King Station, we would immediately cross over towards the Tsuen Wan Line for the remaining segment towards Prince Edward. Both my mum and younger brother also promised to meet us in downtown Mong Kok for dinner later that evening. At the lounge reception counter, we arranged for the receptionist to make a table reservation for dinner at 8.30 p.m. at a hot pot restaurant, known as Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant (Chinese: 小肥羊) located in downtown Mong Kok.
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late afternoon hours
The interior of the Premier Lounge on the 21st floor at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late afternoon hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from the Premier Lounge during the late afternoon hours
A small self-service snack corner in the Premier Lounge during the late afternoon hours
Having some chocolate pudding and tiramisu in the Premier Lounge
The view of my parents' Room No. 2121 during the late afternoon hours
The view of my Room No. 2117 during the late afternoon hours
A glass of red wine for myself in the Premier Lounge
The interior of the Premier Lounge on the 21st floor at the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early evening hours shortly before my dad and I left for downtown Mong Kok
After spending approximately one hour of relaxing and having some light bites and drinks in the Premier Lounge, the clock was finally showing 5.40 p.m.. As my dad and I were ready to head towards Prince Edward near downtown Mong Kok, we informed my mum and younger brother that we would be shopping first before they would come and meet us at Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant for dinner. My mum and younger brother would follow the same route as us later on after having a rest in the hotel. With that, my dad and I grabbed our necessary belongings and took the elevator all the way down towards the main hotel lobby, arriving there by 5.50 p.m.. We then took the escalator up towards Citygate Outlets and walked along the enclosed pedestrian shopping footbridge towards the other side of the mall to access Tung Chung Station. Once we had arrived at Tung Chung Station at 5.55 p.m., my dad went over towards the ticketing machines to buy a one-way train ticket towards Prince Edward via Lai King. We then headed down towards the platform once my dad's ticket transaction was completed.
Walking towards the escalators linking into Citygate Outlets from the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
The escalators linking the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong with Citygate Outlets in the early evening hours
Bypassing several shops on the other side of Citygate Outlets during the early evening hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets in the early evening hours
A lineup of shops located along the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets during the early evening hours
The view of the second level of Citygate Outlets during the early evening hours
The entrance towards Tung Chung Station during the early evening hours
The interior of the main station concourse of Tung Chung Station during the early evening hours
The station platforms of Tung Chung Station during the early evening hours
After spending a few minutes of anticipated waiting on the platform, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. V805-V605 finally arrived at Tung Chung Station at six o' clock (18 00) on Track No. 2. My dad and I immediately boarded the train for the short hop of 17 minutes towards Lai King located in the Kwai Tsing District. The train was relatively crowded since it was already the start of the evening rush hour. At 6.04 p.m. (18 04), all the train doors were closed, and the Tung Chung Line train finally pulled out of Tung Chung Station for its routine journey time of 27 minutes towards the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong. My dad and I were then on our way for a short journey time of 17 minutes towards Lai King, as well as our first segment of our MTR journey from Tung Chung towards Prince Edward, making brief stops at Sunny Bay and Tsing Yi Stations along the way. Sunny Bay Station (Chinese: 欣澳站) is a ground level interchange MTR station located in Yam O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong. The station serves as an interchange station for both the Tung Chung Line and Disneyland Resort Line and the gateway station towards Hong Kong Disneyland, with Tracks No. 1 and 3 providing cross-platform interchange for both lines. The station was opened for service on 1 June 2005, initially serving the Tung Chung Line until the Disneyland Resort Line was opened on 1 August 2005. The Airport Express passes through the centre of the station without stopping, with two emergency platforms provided for it. Certain intermediate Tung Chung Line trains pull over at this station to allow faster Airport Express trains to pass through without stopping. As of 15 March 2014, there is an island platform and a side platform serving three tracks. Sunny Bay Station is also the only MTR station in Hong Kong that has an appearance similar to that of a high-speed railway station (i.e. Shinkansen station in Japan).
An 8-car MTR A-Stock Tung Chung Line train bound for Central Hong Kong arriving at Tung Chung Station on Track No. 2
The interior of Car No. 2 (W605) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. V805-V605 during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Tung Chung Station
The LED destination route map for the Tung Chung Line in Car No. 2 (W605) on board the MTR Tung Chung Line A-Train bound for Central Hong Kong at Tung Chung Station
Awaiting departure from Tung Chung Station
東涌綫 (W605) 行走片段 東涌至荔景 (TUC TO LAK) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Sunny Bay Station
東涌綫 (W605) 行走片段 東涌至荔景 (TUC TO LAK) (2/2)
After a short 17-minute journey along the Tung Chung Line from Tung Chung New Town, we finally arrived at Lai King Station at 6.21 p.m. (18 21) on Track No. 4. Alighting the train, my dad and I immediately crossed over to Track No. 2, which was the station platform for the Tsuen Wan Line trains bound for Central, where an 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central arrived at the platform within just a few seconds. Once the doors were opened, my dad and I immediately boarded the train for the short ride towards Prince Edward, as Prince Edward Station would be the closest station to Pioneer Centre. The train started to get very crowded as it was already the beginning of the evening rush hour. Soon enough, all the train doors were closed, and the Tsuen Wan Line train finally pulled out of Lai King Station at 6.23 p.m. (18 23), taking us for a short journey time of just 11 minutes towards Prince Edward Station. Since this was just a short ride, I didn't film any videos for this segment. Lai King Station (Chinese: 荔景站) is an elevated MTR station located within Lai King, Kwai Tsing District, Hong Kong. The station serves as an interchange station for the Tsuen Wan Line and Tung Chung Line, with both lines connecting with each other via a cross-platform interchange. Many commuters travelling to Central Hong Kong from Tsuen Wan cross over to the Tung Chung Line from the Tsuen Wan Line for a faster route towards the city. A pair of tracks just by the lower platforms were also constructed for the Airport Express, which does not stop at this station.
Tracks No. 2 and 4 serving the Tsuen Wan Line and Tung Chung Line trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Lai King Station
Boarding the MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong for the trip towards Prince Edward
Finally departing Lai King Station
The interior of the crowded MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong between Lai King and Mei Foo Stations
Making a brief stop at Mei Foo Station
The LED destination route map for the Tsuen Wan Line indicating that there are 10 more stations to go towards Central Hong Kong
Making a brief stop at Cheung Sha Wan Station
The priority seat signs in the MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong
The LED destination route map for the Tsuen Wan Line indicating that there are seven more stations to go towards Central Hong Kong
After a short subway journey time of just 11 minutes from Lai King Station, we finally arrived at Prince Edward Station at 6.34 p.m. (18 34) on Track No. 4. Struggling through the large crowds, my dad and I held onto our belongings and alighted the train before heading up to the main station concourse to tap our tickets before exiting the ticketing gates. As my dad had no Octopus Card with him, he inserted his used train ticket from Tung Chung via Lai King into the ticket gate inserter. Once we exited through the main ticketing gates, we walked through the station concourse to search for the correct exit leading towards Pioneer Centre. Finding the correct exit which led towards Pioneer Centre, we exited Prince Edward Station and were finally in the lively district of Sai Yeung Choi Street at 6.40 p.m.. Wanting to visit a notable hobby shop, known as West Main Toys first, we looked through the shophouses available along Sai Yeung Choi Street to identify West Main Toys hobby shop's correct shophouse unit. Prince Edward Station (Chinese: 太子站) is an MTR station located in Northern Mongkok, Yau Tsim Mong District, Kowloon, Hong Kong. One of the interchange stations serving the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line, the station provides cross-platform interchange for both lines, like Mong Kok Station. Pioneer Centre is also served by Prince Edward Station, as well as Sai Yeung Choi Street. However, unlike Mong Kok Station, the station has an anti-directional cross-platform interchange for the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line.
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line trains towards Central Hong Kong and Tiu Keng Leng at Prince Edward Station
The main station concourse of Prince Edward Station during the early evening rush hour
The early evening view of Sai Yeung Choi Street crowded with vehicles and shoppers
The exterior view of Pioneer Centre during the early evening hours
The view of the crowded and lively Sai Yeung Choi Street during nightfall
Finally arriving at the shophouse unit of West Main Toys along Sai Yeung Choi Street
After looking patiently through the various shophouse units along Sai Yeung Choi Street for approximately five minutes, we finally stumbled upon West Main Toys at 6.45 p.m.. With its current location, I knew that the hobby shop had shifted its location from Pioneer Centre to this particular shophouse unit somewhere in 2013. Entering the shop by indicating the name through the entering speaker at the entrance, my dad and I successfully managed to enter the hotel shop. Upon entering the shop, the owner immediately familiarised himself with me, since I had been to his shop at Pioneer Centre twice in March 2012 and November 2012. The owner also explained to me that the shop had moved from Pioneer Centre to its current location in October 2013. As always, the entire hobby shop had various commercial aircraft models on display from different manufacturers, such as Herpa Wings and Dragon Wings, which drew my attention very much. While doing my shopping at West Main Toys located at Sai Yeung Choi Street, I managed to purchase a total of six brand new Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 aircraft models for HK$2,600 (S$433.30) using my credit card. Once I was completed with my new aircraft purchases, I thanked the West Main Toys shop owner and promised to come again on my future trips to Hong Kong. With that, my dad and I left the hobby shop and crossed the busy road towards Pioneer Centre at 7.05 p.m.. Arriving there by 7.15 p.m., my dad and I took the escalators up towards the second floor of the mall to find another aircraft model shop. As of the six new Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 aircraft models I had purchased at West Main Toys, they were, as follows: 1) American Airlines Boeing 777-323/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (523950)
American Airlines Boeing 777-323/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (523950)
2) ANA - All Nippon Airways Boeing 747-481 "Yokoso! Japan" ANA Official Precision Models Scale 1:500 (NH 50018)
ANA - All Nippon Airways Boeing 747-481 "Yokoso! Japan" ANA Official Precision Models Scale 1:500 (NH 50018)
3) Lufthansa Airbus A340-313X "Soccer Nose" Herpa Scale 1:500 (507509)
Lufthansa Airbus A340-313X "Soccer Nose" Herpa Scale 1:500 (507509)
4) Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-312/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (524858)*
Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-312/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (524858)
*I purchased a total of two copies of this model as they looked very attractive to me. This model is also an exclusive model for Singapore Airlines at KrisShop, selling each model at a price of S$59 for in-flight sales. 5) Turkish Airlines Airbus A340-311 Herpa Scale 1:500 (524360)
Turkish Airlines Airbus A340-311 Herpa Scale 1:500 (524360)
The interior of West Main Toys in Sai Yeung Choi Street near Pioneer Centre
The interior of the ground level of Pioneer Centre at night
Taking the escalator up towards the second level of Pioneer Centre
Finally stumbling upon Aero Shop
After looking through the various shops around Pioneer Centre very carefully, we finally stumbled upon a notable hobby shop, Aero Shop, at 7.20 p.m.. The store owner, by the name of Mr. Danny, seemed to be quite familiar with me since I had previously visited his shop twice in March 2012 and November 2012. Prior to departure to Hong Kong, I had checked his blog to see that he had re-located to another store within the same level of Pioneer Centre in October 2013. Looking through all of the various models on display, I noticed that some of the more rare models seemed to catch my eye. While shopping at Aero Shop Hong Kong, I purchased a total of four new Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 aircraft models for HK$2,000 (S$333.33). Upon completing my transactions, I looked at more models until it was time to head to Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Mong Kok. Leaving the shop, I thanked Mr. Danny for his warm and kind services and promised to come again on my future Hong Kong trips. As for the models I purchased from Aero Shop Hong Kong, they were, as follows: 1) Asiana Airlines Boeing 777-28E/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (523660)
Asiana Airlines Boeing 777-28E/ER Herpa Scale 1:500 (523660)
2) British Airways Boeing 747-436 Herpa Scale 1:500 (512497)
British Airways Boeing 747-436 Herpa Scale 1:500 (512497)
3) Garuda Indonesia Airbus A330-341 Herpa Scale 1:500 (508452)
Garuda Indonesia Airbus A330-341 Herpa Scale 1:500 (508452)
4) JAL - Japan Airlines Boeing 747-446 Herpa Scale 1:500 (504058)
JAL - Japan Airlines Boeing 747-446 Herpa Scale 1:500 (504058)
About to take the escalator back down towards the ground floor of Pioneer Centre
Taking the escalator back down towards the ground level of Pioneer Centre
The interior of the ground level of Pioneer Centre at night shortly before we left for Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok
After spending the early evening doing some downtown shopping around Sai Yeung Choi Street, the clock was finally showing 7.35 p.m.. Since both my dad and I were feeling very hungry already, we decided to head to Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant located in downtown Mong Kok, which was located just across Langham Place. With that, my dad and I exited Pioneer Centre and headed towards the nearest cab stand to get a cab to Langham Place. Once we managed to hail the nearest red urban cab down, we got into the cab and informed the driver to take us towards Langham Place located in downtown Mong Kok. As soon as both of us were on board the cab, we finally departed the lively and busy vicinity of downtown Sai Yeung Choi Street at 7.40 p.m., with the entire cab journey between Sai Yeung Choi Street and Langham Place taking no more than just five minutes. Soon enough, we finally arrived at the cab stand located outside Langham Place at 7.45 p.m.. Checking to see that none of our belongings had been left behind in the cab, we paid our cab fare and walked across the road leading to Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant from Langham Place. Langham Place (Chinese: 朗豪坊) is a commercial skyscraper complex and shopping mall located in downtown Mong Kok, Yau Tsim Mong District, Kowloon, Hong Kong. The mall was opened for business on 25 March 2005, and houses a 59-storey office tower, a 15-floor shopping mall, and the Langham Place Hotel. The mall is easily accessible by cab or MTR via Mong Kok Station located along the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line.
About to board the cab towards Langham Place in downtown Mong Kok
Finally departing the crowded nightlife of Sai Yeung Choi Street
Travelling through the lively streets of downtown Mong Kok at night
Finally arriving at the cab drop-off area located outside Langham Place in downtown Mong Kok
The view of the cab drop-off area located outside Langham Place in downtown Mong Kok at night
The exterior view of the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant building in downtown Mong Kok at night
After walking through the lively night streets of downtown Mong Kok from Langham Place, my dad and I finally arrived at the main entrance towards Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant at 7.50 p.m.. Entering the restaurant building, my dad checked with the restaurant reception lady to confirm our table reservation at 8.30 p.m.. With our names positively identified, the restaurant reception lady informed that our reserved table would be located on the second level. With our reserved dinner table positively identified, my dad and I took the elevator up to the second floor level and found our assigned dinner table located within the middle of the entire restaurant. Like all other tables in the restaurant, there was a heating pad in the middle of the table to heat up the broth in the metal hot pots. With the food and beverage menus left at our table, my dad and I had a good review through them while waiting for my mum and younger brother to arrive. Soon, at around 8.20 p.m., both my mum and younger brother finally met up with us at the restaurant. They too had their reviews through the food and beverage menus at the same time. Once we had our reviews through the food and beverage menus, a restaurant waitress finally came by to our table to take down our main meal orders for dinner. We ordered a lot of sliced meat dishes, noodle dishes and vegetable dishes, along with a bottle of red wine to be shared among us. Once our orders had been taken down, another waitress finally laid out a large metal hot pot split up by a metal boundary. One side contained normal, non-spicy steamboat broth, while the other side of the pot contained extra hot and spicy steamboat broth, of which both my younger brother and I could only take the non-spicy side of the pot. Later that night, we had a very huge and sumptuous family steamboat dinner at Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant. The udon and instant noodles were also of much better quality, unlike the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant branch located in Kimberly Road.
Finally arriving at the main entrance towards the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant building
The interior of the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok shortly after my dad and I entered
The black hot pot heating pad in the middle of our table at Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok
The cover page for the food and beverage menu of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok
Reviewing the food and beverage menu of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok
The two kinds of broth being stirred in the metal hot pot to commence our steamboat dinner
A platter of udon noodles ready to be cooked in the hot pot
Our first platter of luncheon meat ready to be cooked in the hot pot
A platter containing two packets of instant noodles to be cooked in the hot pot
Our first course of instant noodles and vegetable accompaniments boiling in the metal hot pot
Our first platter of Mongolian-style sliced beef ready to be cooked in the steaming hot pot
A few pieces of luncheon meat cooking with the instant noodles in the steaming hot pot
A platter of Australian beef cuts ready to be cooked in the steaming hot pot
More condiments, including a few slices of meat, boiling in the steaming hot pot
Our second platter of Mongolian-style sliced beef ready to be cooked in the steaming hot pot
More instant noodles and sliced meat being cooked in the steaming hot pot
Our second platter of luncheon meat ready to be cooked in the hot pot
A large platter of sliced Mongolian lamb ready to be cooked in the steaming hot pot
The instant noodles and mushrooms being cooked in the steaming hot pot
The remaining pieces of Mongolian lamb slices ready to be cooked in the steaming hot pot
The interior of the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok shortly before I headed to Mong Kok Station
After having a very large and sumptuous family steamboat dinner at Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in downtown Mong Kok, the clock was finally showing 9.20 p.m.. Since I was already feeling too stuffed to the brim and getting very tired, I decided to head back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong first. My parents then agreed that I could go back first and promised to settle the restaurant dinner bill once they had finished eating. To get back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong, I decided to take the Tsuen Wan Line train from Mong Kok to Central Hong Kong, and connect to the Airport Express towards the airport. From the airport, I would hail a Lantau Taxi back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. However, my family would take the usual Tsuen Wan Line from Mong Kok to Lai King, and cross over to the Tung Chung Line for the remaining segment towards Tung Chung. Without wasting anymore time, I took my belongings and left the restaurant at 9.25 p.m. and took the elevator back down towards the ground level of the restaurant building and headed towards Mong Kok Station. Entering the station, I went down towards the main concourse of the station and tapped my Octopus Card before taking the escalators all the way down to the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line platform bound for Yau Ma Tei and Central Hong Kong, eventually arriving there by 9.35 p.m.. Mong Kok Station (Chinese: 旺角站) is an MTR station serving the vicinity of Mongkok, Yau Tsim Mong District, Kowloon, Hong Kong. It is one of the three interchange stations serving the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line, with both lines connecting to each other via a cross-platform interchange. The station is also one of the oldest and busiest subway stations in the entire MTR network, with at least 200,000 commuters passing through the station daily.
The entrance towards the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant building in downtown Mong Kok shortly before I headed to Mong Kok Station
One of the main entrances towards Mong Kok Station located near the Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant building
The main station concourse of Mong Kok Station during the late night rush hours
Tracks No. 2 and 4 serving the Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tung Line trains towards Central and Yau Ma Tei at Mong Kok Station
After spending approximately a couple of minutes of anticipated waiting on the platform, an 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central finally arrived at 9.37 p.m. (21 37) on Track No. 2. Though the train was relatively crowded, I boarded the train for the short journey time of just 13 minutes towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. Soon enough, all of the train doors were closed, and I finally pulled out of Mong Kok Station for the short journey time of just 13 minutes towards the hustle and bustle of the heart Central Hong Kong. Central Station (Traditional Chinese: 中環站; Simplified Chinese: 中环站) is an underground MTR station located in the Central District of Hong Kong Island. The station is served by the Tsuen Wan Line and Island Line, and serves as the southern terminus of the Tsuen Wan Line. With more than 200,000 commuters passing through the station daily, it is one of the most heavily-used MTR stations in Hong Kong. Central Station also connects with the Tung Chung Line and Airport Express via Hong Kong Station, with the walk taking between three to six minutes via an underground passageway linking both stations.
An 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong arriving at Track No. 2 at Mong Kok Station
Awaiting departure from Mong Kok Station
The interior of the 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong between Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei Stations
The LED destination route map for the Tsuen Wan Line indicating that there are five more stations to go before Central Hong Kong
Making a brief stop at Yau Ma Tei Station
The interior of the 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong between Yau Ma Tei and Jordan Stations
Making a brief stop at Jordan Station
Making a brief stop at Tsim Sha Tsui Station
The interior of the 8-car MTR M-Stock Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Hong Kong while making a brief stop at Admiralty Station
Pulling out of Admiralty Station
Finally arriving at the Central terminal station
After a short 13-minute train ride on the Tsuen Wan Line from the lively hustle and bustle of downtown Mong Kok, I finally arrived at the Central terminal station at 9.50 p.m. (21 50) on Track No. 2. Alighting from the train, I took the escalator up to the main station concourse and bypassed the Chai Wan-bound Island Line platform before reaching the entrance to the passageway linking between Central and Hong Kong Stations. Arriving at the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station, I decided to catch the Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, which would be scheduled to depart Hong Kong Station at 10.20 p.m. (22 20). Since it was the late night rush hour, the entire station concourses of both Central and Hong Kong Stations were crowded with commuters trying to get home after a long day of work. Without wasting anymore time, I proceeded towards the ticketing gates towards the elevator for the Airport Express trains, and took the elevator up to the Airport Express concourse of the station. Arriving at the Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station by 9.55 p.m., I went through the ticket gates and checked my belongings while waiting for the 10.20 p.m. (22 20) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport to arrive.
The Tsuen Wan Line platforms of Central Station during the late night hours
The main station concourse of Central Station leading towards the Island Line platform towards Chai Wan during the late night rush hours
Walking along the relatively crowded underground passageway linking between Central and Hong Kong Stations during the late night rush hours
The Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the late night rush hours
The Airport Express ticketing gates in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the late night rush hours
The elevator leading towards the Airport Express concourse and platform in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the late night rush hours
Finally arriving at the main Airport Express concourse on the second basement level at Hong Kong Station during the late night rush hour
Track No. 1 serving the Airport Express trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station during the late night rush hour
An 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E109-K409, operating as the 10.10 p.m. (22 10) Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, awaiting departure from Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
After spending approximately ¼ of an hour of anticipated waiting on the only Airport Express platform (Track No. 1), an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K408-E108, which would operate as the 10.20 p.m. (22 20) Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 10.13 p.m. (22 13) on Track No. 1. Once the train doors were opened, I boarded the train via Car No. 1 (E108), and secured Seat No. 5A for the short late evening return trip of 24 minutes to Hong Kong International Airport.
There were only a few passengers boarding the Airport Express train late that night. Once the clock struck precisely 10.20 p.m. (22 20) sharp, all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train ultimately pulled out of Hong Kong Station for itslate evening trip of just 28 minutes to the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport. I was then on my way for a short and quick late evening return trip of 24 minutes to Hong Kong International Airport.
機場快綫 A-Train (K408-E108) 駛入港鐵香港站一號月台
The interior of Car No. 1 (E108) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E108-K408, operating as the 10.20 p.m. (22 20) Airport Express service bound for Hong Kong International Airport, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The indication router map on board the 10.20 p.m. (22 20) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport while at Hong Kong Station
The baggage rack on board the 10.20 p.m. (22 20) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport while at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E108) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E108) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (2/2)
After a very short and quick 24-minute Airport Express MTR ride from the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 10.44 p.m. (22 44) on Tracks No. 1 and 3. Ensuring that I had all of my belongings with me, I alighted the train via Track No. 1 and took the elevator all the way down towards the ground level, where the cab stands for various destinations were located. Arriving at the ground level of Hong Kong International Airport, I quickly headed towards the cab stand for the Lantau Taxi, where I hailed for the nearest blue Lantau Taxi at 10.50 p.m., informing the driver in Mandarin Chinese that my intended destination was the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. Soon enough, at the same timing, I was finally on my way for a short cab ride of just 10 minutes back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong.
Track No. 1 serving the Airport Express trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo at Hong Kong International Airport Station shortly after I had arrived during the late night hours
The 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Airport Express Set No. E108-K408 awaiting departure from Hong Kong International Airport Station from Tracks No. 1 and 3
The passageway leading towards Terminal 2 at Hong Kong International Airport during the late night hours
Finally approaching the cab stands located between the two terminals at Hong Kong International Airport
The taxi stands located between the two terminals at Hong Kong International Airport shortly before I hailed a Lantau Taxi back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
Finally departing the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks between AsiaWorld-Expo and Hong Kong International Airport at night
Travelling along the road away from Hong Kong International Airport in the direction towards Tung Chung and the city
Travelling alongside the Airport Express MTR tracks located between Hong Kong International Airport and Tung Chung New Town late at night
The night view of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong while crossing the bridge towards it
About to turn towards the road leading towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong in Tung Chung New Town
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the late night hours
The view of the Airport Express MTR tracks and the Lantau Expressway from my Room No. 2117 during the late night hours
The view of my Room No. 2117 during the late night hours
After a short Lantau Taxi ride of just 10 minutes from the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived back at the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong at eleven o' clock. Ensuring that I had left none of my belongings behind on board, I paid up my cab fare and headed into the main hotel lobby. I then knew that my family was already back in their rooms by this time. Entering the main hotel lobby, I headed to the main elevator lobby and took the elevator all the way up towards the 21st floor, eventually arriving back at my Room No. 2117 by 11.10 p.m.. Once I was back in my room, I had a nice, hot shower and changed into my pyjamas prior to settling in for the night. I then set my alarm on my mobile phone to wake me up at 7.15 a.m. the next morning before finally turning in after midnight for a good night's sleep. Part 3 ~ My Airport Express (MTR) Train Rounds (Part 2) The next morning, which was Thursday (20 March), I woke up at around seven o' clock, 15 minutes before my mobile phone alarm went off, after having a well-earned good night's rest. Leaping from bed, I had a nice, hot shower and changed into my day's attire before commencing the day. I then proceeded to prepare all of my necessary belongings for the day, including my camera batteries and my portable mobile phone charger, fully charged. Upon preparing all of my necessary belongings for the day, I was officially ready to go at 7.35 a.m.. Taking all of my necessary belongings, including a hotel umbrella, with me, I quietly left my room at 7.45 a.m., and took the elevator all the way down towards the main hotel lobby. Before leaving for my Airport Express MTR rounds, I decided to have breakfast first prior to leaving the hotel for Tung Chung Station.
The entire view of Tung Chung New Town as seen from my Room No. 2117 in the early morning shortly after I woke up
The view of Hong Kong International Airport from my Room No. 2117 in the bright early morning hours
The entrance to Essence restaurant by the hotel lobby in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the early morning hours
After taking the elevator all the way down from my Room No. 2117, I finally stumbled upon Essence buffet restaurant again at 7.50 a.m.. Feeling rather hungry already, I showed my invitation coupon to the waiter at the restaurant entrance. Upon being given the green light to enter, I entered the restaurant and managed to secure a table located somewhere near to the entrance to the restaurant. That morning, again, there was a variety of selections of breakfast food ranging from eggs to congee. While having breakfast at Essence buffet restaurant that morning, I managed to have some scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, bacon and sausages. Once again, they were alright to my taste buds as I find the breakfasts offered at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel and the InterContinental Hotel Hong Kong suit my taste buds much better.
The self-service soup and beverage corner in the Essence restaurant in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong
My main breakfast course: Scrambled eggs with soft and crispy bacon, chicken and beef sausage with smoked salmon
The interior of Essence restaurant in the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong in the early morning
After having a filling breakfast at Essence buffet restaurant, the clock was finally showing eight o' clock. Since I was feeling ready to commence my journey towards Central Hong Kong for my Airport Express rides, I left the restaurant and took the escalators linking up towards Citygate Outlets. On the way towards Tung Chung Station, I bypassed several unopened shops and crossed the enclosed pedestrian shopping footbridge all the way to the other side of the mall. Once I was on the other side of Citygate Outlets, I took the escalators all the way down to the ground level of the mall and walked across the mall leading towards the inner entrance to Tung Chung Station, eventually arriving at the main station concourse at 8.10 a.m.. Upon entering the station, I tapped my Octopus Card at the ticketing gates and took the escalator down towards the station platforms, where I waited for a Tung Chung Line train bound for Central Hong Kong, which would depart the station close to 8.30 a.m..
The main hotel lobby of the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong during the bright early morning hours
The escalators linking the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong with Citygate Outlets in the early morning
Bypassing several unopened retail shops at Citygate Outlets during the bright early morning rush hour
The view of the Airport Express MTR line tracks and the North Lantau Expressway from the enclosed shopping footbridge at Citygate Outlets in the bright early morning rush hour
Riding the escalators down towards the ground level at Citygate Outlets
Finally approaching the entrance to Tung Chung Station in Citygate Outlets
The interior of the main station concourse of Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
The station platforms of Tung Chung Station during the early morning rush hour
Several commuters waiting to board a Tung Chung Line train bound for Central Hong Kong on Track No. 1 at Tung Chung Station
After spending approximately just five minutes of anticipated waiting on the station platform, an 8-car MTR Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. V803-V603 finally entered Tung Chung Station at 8.20 a.m. on Track No. 2. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded the train through Car No. 5 (W703) in preparation for the short journey timing of just 28 minutes to the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. At 8.28 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Tung Chung Line train finally pulled out of Tung Chung Station for its routine journey time of just 28 minutes towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. The train began to fill up with more passengers at Tsing Yi Station as it was already the midst of the morning rush hour, with lots of commuters getting to work or school.
An 8-car MTR A-Stock Tung Chung Line train bound for Central Hong Kong arriving at Tung Chung Station on Track No. 2
The interior of Car No. 5 (W703) on board the 8-car MTR A-Stock Tung Chung Line train bound for Central Hong Kong at Tung Chung Station
Awaiting departure from Tung Chung Station
東涌綫 (W703) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (1/3)
東涌綫 (W703) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (2/3)
東涌綫 (W703) 行走片段 東涌至香港 (TUC TO HOK) (3/3)
After a short journey time of just 28 minutes from Tung Chung New Town, I finally arrived at the Hong Kong terminal station at 8.56 a.m. on Track No. 4. Ensuring that I held on tight to my belongings, I alighted the crammed train and took the escalator up to the main station concourse, and stopped at Okashi Land convenience store to purchase a bottle of water to hydrate myself in preparation for my upcoming Airport Express train rounds. Upon doing so, I went to the Airport Express ticket gate in the Tung Chung Line concourse, and took the elevator up to the Airport Express concourse and platform, eventually arriving there at 9.05 a.m.. Instead of catching my usual 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, I decided to catch the train that would depart at ten o' clock. With that, I had a brief restroom break and entered the platform at 9.35 a.m., 25 minutes prior to my scheduled departure timing.
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Tung Chung Line trains at Hong Kong Station during the morning rush hour
The Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the morning rush hour
The Okashi Land souvenir shop located in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the morning rush hour
The layout map structure of Hong Kong Station in the Tung Chung Line concourse
The Airport Express ticketing gates in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station
The elevator linking up towards the Airport Express trains in the Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station during the morning rush hour
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station in the morning
An
8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E107-K407, operating as the 9.20
a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong
International Airport, on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station while having a rest
An 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E105-K405, operating as the 9.40 a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
An 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E102-K402, operating as the 9.50 a.m. Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station shortly before the ten o' clock Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arrived at the station
After spending approximately 55 minutes of anticipated and long waiting within the Airport Express station concourse and platform, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. K409-E109 finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 9.52 a.m. on Track No. 1. It was then that I knew that this train would become the ten o' clock Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport. Once the train doors were opened, I boarded the train through Car No. 1 (E109) in order to commence my first Airport Express MTR train round of the day. As always, there were not much passengers on the train between Hong Kong and Tsing Yi Stations. At exactly ten o' clock, all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey time of just 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. It was then that I officially commenced my first Airport Express MTR round of the day.
機場快綫 A-Train (K409-E109) 駛入港鐵香港站一號月台
The
interior of Car No. 1 (E109) on board 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set
No. E109-K409, operating as the ten o' clock Airport Express train
bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, during the
boarding process on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E109) on board the ten o' clock Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 1 (E109) on board the ten o' clock Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至青衣 (HOK TO TSY)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 青衣至機場 (TSY TO AIR)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 機場至博覽館 (AIR TO AWE)
After a routine 28-minute journey from the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 10.28 a.m. on Track No. 1. Having all of my belongings with me, I alighted the train and did my usual car turnover towards Car No. 2 (F109) for the return trip back towards the heart of Central Hong Kong. I then secured a seat located just adjacent to the front baggage rack near the doors. At exactly 10.34 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station for its routine 28-minute journey back towards the heart of Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way for the short 28-minute journey back towards the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong to complete my first Airport Express MTR round of the day.
The sole Airport Express platform of AsiaWorld-Expo Station with the 10.34 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at the platform
The car number labelling of Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K409-E109, now operating as the 10.34 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The interior of Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. K409-E109, now operating as the 10.34 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 10.34 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
Awaiting departure from AsiaWorld-Expo Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 博覽館至機場 (AWE TO AIR)
The advertisement display information screen in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 10.38 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong while making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 10.38 a.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong while making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 機場至青衣 (AIR TO TSY)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 青衣至香港 (TSY TO HOK)
After a short routine train journey of just 28 minutes from the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 11.02 a.m. on Track No. 1, thus completing my Airport Express MTR round of the day. Checking to see that I had left none of my belongings on board, I alighted the train and made my usual car changeover to Car No. 1 (E109) to begin my second Airport Express MTR round of the day, stopping at Hong Kong International Airport for a brief lunch break along the way. Boarding the train through Car No. 1 (E109) in preparation for the 11.10 a.m. departure, I secured my usual seating spot by the rear baggage rack. At exactly 11.10 a.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey time of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport. I was then on my way for a short journey timing of just 24 minutes towards Hong Kong International Airport.
The 11.10 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (E109) on board the 11.10 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E109) on board the 11.10 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The MTR system map in Car No. 1 (E109) on board the 11.10 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至機場 (HOK TO AIR) (2/2)
After a short train journey time of just 24 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 11.34 a.m. on Tracks No. 1 and 3. Ensuring that none of my belongings had been left behind on board, I alighted the train through the left side leading to Terminal 1 on Track No. 1, and walked directly into the departures and check-in area of Terminal 1, eventually entering it by 11.40 a.m.. Once I was in the departures and check-in hall of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1, I decided to have a quick washroom and water cooler break prior to searching for a good shop to shop at later on. Upon finishing my brief washroom and water cooler breaks, I went to look through the shops available within the departures and check-in area of Terminal 1 of Hong Kong International Airport carefully prior to choosing on which shop to patronise.
Track No. 1 serving the Airport Express trains bound for AsiaWorld-Expo at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Looking down towards Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Walking along the moving passageway into the departures and check-in area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
The departures and check-in area of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1 during the early afternoon hours
Finally stumbling upon Toys & Games hobby shop in Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1 again
Several aircraft models on display in a glass case located by the entrance to Toys & Games hobby shop
After having a quick washroom and water cooler break, as well as looking around the shops in the departures and check-in area carefully, I finally stumbled upon a notable hobby shop, known as Toys & Games again. Entering the shop, I managed to look through the various aircraft models on sale prior to making my choices on which models to purchase to add to my diverse aircraft collection. While shopping there, I purchased a total of six new Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 commercial aircraft models for a total price of HK$1820 (S$303.33). Upon purchasing my Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 commercial aircraft models, I bypassed the various airline check-in counters and took the escalator down to the arrivals and meeting hall, arriving there by noon. Since I was feeling hungry already, I headed over towards the McDonald's fast-food restaurant for a brief lunch break. While eating at McDonald's, I had a big packet of french fries and a carton containing nine pieces of Chicken McNuggets, along with a cup of Diet Coca-cola, which helped me to get me refilled for my upcoming Airport Express rounds of the day. As for the six new Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 commercial aircraft models I had purchased, they were, as follows: 1) Air Canada Airbus A340-541 Herpa Scale 1:500 (524650)
Air Canada Airbus A340-541 Herpa Scale 1:500 (524650)
2) Air China Airbus A330-243 "Zijin Hao - Forbidden Pavilion Liner" Herpa Scale 1:500 (524339)
Air China Airbus A330-243 "Zijin Hao - Forbidden Pavilion Liner" Herpa Scale 1:500 (524339)
3) Cathay Pacific Airbus A330-342 Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
Cathay Pacific Airbus A330-342 Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
4) Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-267 Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-267 Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)
5) Etihad Airways Airbus A340-642 Herpa Scale 1:500 (523998-001)
Etihad Airways Airbus A340-642 Herpa Scale 1:500 (523998-001)
6) Turkish Airlines Cargo Airbus A330-243F Herpa Scale 1:500 (526142)
Turkish Airlines Cargo Airbus A330-243F Herpa Scale 1:500 (526142)
The view of the departures and check-in area shortly before going down towards the arrivals and meeting area
Gazing at the airline check-in counters again shortly before heading down towards the arrivals and meeting area
Walking down the escalators towards the arrivals and meeting area at Hong Kong International Airport
The view of the arrivals and meeting area of Hong Kong International Airport in the early afternoon hours
The McDonald's fast-food restaurant in the arrivals and meeting area of Hong Kong International Airport
Having some french fries, Chicken McNuggets and Coca-cola at McDonald's fast-food restaurant at Hong Kong International Airport
After having a quick fast-food lunch break at McDonald's fast-food restaurant in the arrivals area of Hong Kong International Airport, the clock was finally showing 12.20 p.m.. Since I had my plans to catch the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong in order to resume my second Airport Express round of the day, I immediately went to have a quick washroom break before rushing over towards Track No. 2 of Hong Kong International Airport Station. Soon enough, I finally arrived at Track No. 2 of Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.30 p.m., approximately 25 minutes before my scheduled 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arrived at the platform. There were some arriving passengers on the platform waiting to catch the nearest Airport Express train to their hotels in downtown Kowloon and Central Hong Kong. As I waited for the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong, I sorted out my belongings prior to resuming my second round.
Walking along the passageway between the arrivals and meeting area and Hong Kong International Airport Station
Finally arriving at Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station shortly before the 12.38 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arrived at the station
The 12.49 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong awaiting departure from Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
Track No. 2 serving the Airport Express trains bound for Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station shortly before the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong arrived at the platform
The Airport Express route information map above the platform screen doors on Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station
After spending approximately almost 20 minutes of anticipated waiting along the station platform, an 8-car MTR Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. K409-E109, operating on the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express service bound for Central Hong Kong, finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.54 p.m. on Track No. 2. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded the train through Car No. 3 (G109) and secured a seat by the rear baggage rack to resume my second Airport Express round of the day. Once the clock struck precisely 12.58 p.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong International Airport Station for its remaining segment of just 24 minutes towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way for a short journey time of just 24 minutes back towards the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, thus resuming my second Airport Express round of the day.
機場快綫 A-Train (K409-E109) 駛入港鐵機場站二號月台
The baggage rack in Car No. 3 (G109) on board the 12.58 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong while awaiting departure from Hong Kong International Airport Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (G109) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (1/2)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (G109) 行走片段 機場至香港 (AIR TO HOK) (2/2)
After a short journey time of just 24 minutes from Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 1.22 p.m. (13 22) on Track No. 1, thus completing my second Airport Express round of the day. Being sure to check that I had not left anything behind, I alighted the train and made my normal car changeover towards Car No. 1 (E109) in preparation for my third and final Airport Express round of the day. Boarding the train again through Car No. 1 (E109) in preparation for the 1.30 p.m. (13 30) departure, I managed to secure my normal seating spot located by the rear baggage rack. At exactly 1.30 p.m., all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its routine journey timing of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre, allowing me to commence my third and final Airport Express round of the day.
The 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E109) on board the 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E109) on board the 1.30 p.m. (13 30) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
Awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (E109) 行走片段 香港至博覽館 (HOK TO AWE) (3/3)
After a short routine journey time of just 28 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 1.58 p.m. (13 58) on Track No. 1. Ensuring that none of my belongings had been left behind, I alighted from the train, and made my normal car changeover towards Car No. 2 (F109) for the return journey towards Central Hong Kong, securing a seat located by the front baggage rack. At exactly 2.04 p.m. (14 04), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station for its routine 28-minute journey back towards the heart of Central Hong Kong. I was then on my way for the short 28-minute journey back towards the heart of downtown Central Hong Kong to complete my third and final Airport Express MTR round of the day.
The sole Airport Express platform of AsiaWorld-Expo Station with the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at the platform
The labelling of Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The interior of Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The baggage rack in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The advertisement display information screen in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
The LED indication router in Car No. 2 (F109) on board the 2.04 p.m. (14 04) Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo Station
Awaiting departure from AsiaWorld-Expo Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (1/3)
Making a brief stop at Hong Kong International Airport Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (2/3)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (F109) 行走片段 博覽館至香港 (AWE TO HOK) (3/3)
After a short routine journey timing of just 28 minutes from the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 2.32 p.m. (14 32) on Track No. 1, thus completing all of my three Airport Express rounds for the day. Alighting the train with all of my belongings, I exited the platform through the ticketing gates and went to have a brief washroom break. Since I was beginning to feel rather tired already, I decided to head back towards the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. To get back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong, I decided to catch the Airport Express to Hong Kong International Airport, and change to a Lantau Cab back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong upon arrival at the airport. I then planned to catch the Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong Intnernational Airport, which would depart the station at three o' clock (15 00). With that, after my washroom break, I immediately went through the ticketing gates and onto the platform again for my return trip back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong.
The 2.40 p.m. (14 40) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport awaiting departure from Hong Kong Station
Bypassing a barber shop located in the Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station
About to re-enter the ticket gates to access the platform again
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station shortly before the 2.50 p.m. (14 50) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arrived at the station
An 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock EMU Set No. E103-K403, operating as the 2.50 p.m. (14 50) Airport Express service bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, on Track No. 1 at Hong Kong Station
The sole Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station shortly before the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport arrived at the station
After spending approximately 10 minutes of anticipated waiting on the station platform, an 8-car Adtranz-CAF A-Stock Set No. K404-E104, operating on the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport, finally arrived at Hong Kong Station at 2.52 p.m. (14 52) on Track No. 1. Once the doors were opened, I immediately boarded the train through Car No. 1 (E104), and secured my usual seating spot by the rear baggage rack for the short journey towards Hong Kong International Airport. Once the clock struck exactly three o' clock (15 00), all the train doors were closed, and the Airport Express finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station for its short routine journey timing of 28 minutes towards the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre via Hong Kong International Airport, both located on Lantau Island. I was then on my way for a short train journey timing of just 24 minutes towards Hong Kong International Airport.
機場快綫 A-Train (K404-E104) 駛入港鐵香港站一號月台 II
The emergency communication button of Car No. 1 (E104) on board the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (E104) on board the three o' clock (15 00) Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport at Hong Kong Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 香港至青衣 (HOK TO TSY)
Making a brief stop at Tsing Yi Station
機場快綫 (E104) 行走片段 青衣至機場 (TSY TO AIR)
After a short travel duration of 24 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the heart of Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport Station at 3.24 p.m. (15 24) on Tracks No. 1 and 3. Checking to see that I had left none of my belongings on board, I alighted the train via Track No. 1 and took the elevator all the way down towards the ground level of the airport and to the cab stands, eventually arriving there by 3.30 p.m.. Waiting on the Lantau Taxi stand, a light blue Lantau Taxi finally pulled up at the cab stand below Hong Kong International Airport at 3.40 p.m.. Boarding the cab, I informed the cab driver to take me back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong. Soon enough, I finally left the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport for a short cab ride of just 10 minutes back to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong in Tung Chung New Town.
After a short 10-minute cab ride from the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport, I was finally back outside the main entrance to the Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong at 3.50 p.m.. Paying up my cab fare and checking to see that I had left nothing behind on board, I thanked the driver for his services before going into the hotel lobby. Heading to the main elevator lobby, I took the elevator back up to my Room No. 2117 located on the 21st level.
Arriving back at my Room No. 2117, I saw that my younger brother was still in the room, and was planning to go out with my dad to Kwong Wah Street to shop for some military-related items. My mum was also planning to follow them to Kwong Wah Street to do their shopping. Once they had left their rooms respectively, I was left alone in my Room No. 2117 to have a well-earned rest throughout the entire afternoon.
This now officially brings the third sub-segment of my combined mini-shopping vacation to Bangkok, Thailand, and Hong Kong in March 2014 to an official conclusion. The fourth and final segment of the entire vacation trip report will be published once I have chosen the best quality photographs and videos for the segment. Please do be patient as these require time and effort to be published.
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